Burge Case Ruling Seen Far Away

March 20, 1992

Chicago Police Board cases 1856, 1857 and 1858-the cases of Cmdr. Jon Burge and Detectives John Yucaitis and Patrick O`Hara-concluded Thursday with the officers` counsel arguing that there is not ample evidence of misdeeds to uphold their firings.

Also in closing hearings, the city recapitulated its rationale for dismissing the three men.

The case has focused citywide attention on allegations of brutality, torture and excessive force in the Police Department. It is the most extensive case of its kind in the police board`s history.

FOR THE RECORD - Additional material published March 21, 1992:Corrections and clarifications.A story in the March 20 Chicagoland North and South sections incorrectly reported that Police Board hearings in the brutality case of Cmdr. Jon Burge and Detectives John Yucaitis and Patrick O`Hara had concluded Thursday afternoon. Final arguments in the case concluded Friday. The Tribune regrets the error.

Burge and Yucaitis are accused of brutalizing and torturing convicted cop killer Andrew Wilson in February 1982, and O`Hara of knowing about the abuse but doing nothing to stop it.

The hearings have lasted six weeks and have included about two dozen witnesses.

The final ruling, which will be made by the nine-member civilian police board, is not expected for several months.

Mark Iris, executive director, said it will likely take at least a month to compile the 5,000 to 10,000 pages of testimony from this hearing and previous judicial proceedings, upon which the board members will base their decision.